Laos uses U22 team to play against Vietnam

Laos will use the U22 team to play against Vietnam. Photo: Minh Chien .

"In the return match against Vietnam at the 2027 Asian Cup at home, we will use many players from the U22 team to prepare for the SEA Games," coach Ha Hyeok-jun shared with Tri Thuc - Znews .

The decision of the Korean strategist did not surprise experts. After 4 matches in Group F of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, the Lao team won 1, lost 3 and had no chance of advancing. In that context, giving opportunities to young players is considered a reasonable step, helping them gain experience while aiming for the key goal of the 33rd SEA Games held in Thailand at the end of the year.

According to the results of the draw for the men's football group at the 33rd SEA Games held on October 19, U22 Laos is in Group B with U22 Vietnam and U22 Malaysia. This is considered a group with a clear difference in level, as Vietnam and Malaysia are both strong teams in the region. However, coach Ha Hyeok-jun is not afraid because of that.

“We are a team with nothing to lose. Laos is considered the weakest team in the group, but that does not mean that our opponents can easily overcome us. On the contrary, Vietnam and Malaysia are the teams that should be more worried,” he affirmed.

The Korean coach believes that the progress of Lao football in recent times is an encouraging sign. Although the results in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers were not as expected, their recent performance has given his young players more confidence.

“To be honest, Laos is not a strong team, but we are gradually improving. Both Vietnam and Malaysia are wary of Laos, especially after what we have shown recently,” he added.

SEA Games 33 men's football draw results.

Under coach Ha Hyeok-jun, the Lao national teams focus on building a physical foundation, pressing ability and modern tactical thinking. He does not hide his ambition to help the team gradually escape the image of "underdogs" in Southeast Asia.

In addition, allowing U22 Laos to compete at the national team level also helps this strategist quickly shape the framework for the SEA Games. What he wants most is for the young players to not be afraid. When facing Vietnam or Malaysia, they need to enter the field with pride and the highest fighting spirit. The Korean strategist respects all opponents, but also wants to affirm that Laos has changed a lot.

The match between Laos and Vietnam in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers in November will be an important test for Ha Hyeok-jun's U22 squad, and also kick off the preparation journey for the 33rd SEA Games, where Laos aims to surprise the big teams in the region.

Source: https://znews.vn/lao-dung-doi-hinh-u22-dau-tuyen-viet-nam-post1595360.html